Films & Programs

William D. Chalmers will discuss his new book, “America’s Vacation Deficit Disorder,” which asks and answers the question, Why are Americans taking a holiday from their vacations?

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Monday at Distant Lands, 20 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena.

Admission, info: Free. RSVP to (626) 449-3220.

Experts will help you navigate the permit system and cover the basics of preparing for Mt. Whitney, including physical conditioning. Learn strategies to cope with high altitude and alternate routes to get to the top.

When, where: 7 p.m. Wednesday at the REI store in Northridge, 18605 Devonshire St., and Thursday at the REI stores in Arcadia, 214 N. Santa Anita Ave., and Huntington Beach, 7777 Edinger Ave.

Admission, info: Free. (818) 831-5555 for Northridge; (626) 447-1062 for Arcadia; and (714) 379-1938 for Huntington Beach.

Jim Andre, director of the Granite Mountain Desert Research Center, will discuss the future of California’s desert flora that is threatened by development.

When, where: 7 p.m. Friday, Old Schoolhouse Museum, 6760 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms.

Admission, info: $5, (760) 367-5535.

Veteran travelers will offer tips on visiting Australia and New Zealand, including accommodations, budgeting and safety.

When, where: 10 a.m. Saturday at the Hostelling International Travel Store, 1434 2nd St., Santa Monica.

Admission, info: Free. (310) 393-6263.

Please email announcements at least three weeks before the event to [email protected].